Aleph Expats

1. Integrated Resort Scheme (IRS)

• Description: The IRS was the first scheme introduced by the government to allow non-citizens to purchase luxury villas, apartments, penthouses, and duplexes within large-scale, high-end resort developments.
• Minimum Investment: USD 375,000.
• Benefits: Purchasing under the IRS grants the buyer and their immediate family the right to live in Mauritius. Buyers are also eligible for a residence permit.

2. Real Estate Scheme (RES)

• Description: Similar to the IRS, but on a smaller scale, the RES allows for the development of residential units on freehold land with a minimum size of 1 acre. The properties can include villas, townhouses, apartments, and duplexes.
• Minimum Investment: There is no specific minimum investment for RES properties, but to qualify for a residence permit, the purchase must be at least USD 375,000.
• Benefits: Purchasing a property under the RES can also qualify the buyer for a residence permit if the investment meets the minimum threshold.

3. Property Development Scheme (PDS)

• Description: The PDS replaced both the IRS and RES in 2015. It allows the development of a mix of luxury residential properties within a single development and is more inclusive in terms of social integration and eco-friendliness. The scheme can include serviced land, villas, apartments, and commercial spaces.
• Minimum Investment: There is no specific minimum investment for PDS properties, but to qualify for a residence permit, the purchase must be at least USD 375,000.
• Benefits: Similar to the IRS and RES, buyers and their dependents can obtain a residence permit if the property purchase meets the minimum investment criteria.

4. Smart City Scheme

• Description: The Smart City Scheme is part of Mauritius' vision to create innovative and sustainable cities with a mix of commercial, residential, and leisure spaces. These developments aim to be eco-friendly and integrate "live, work, and play" concepts within the same area.
• Minimum Investment: USD 375,000 for a residence permit.
• Benefits: Purchasers under the Smart City Scheme are eligible for a residence permit. The scheme offers a wide range of property options, including apartments, villas, and serviced land.

5. Ground +2 (G+2) Apartments Scheme

• Description: This scheme allows non-citizens to buy apartments in buildings with at least two floors above the ground (G+2). It is a more flexible and affordable option for those who want to invest in real estate in Mauritius without necessarily buying into large-scale resort developments.
• Minimum Investment: MUR 6 million (approximately USD 150,000).
• Benefits: Buyers of G+2 apartments do not automatically qualify for a residence permit unless the investment meets or exceeds USD 375,000.

6. Other Schemes

• Private Pension Scheme (PPS): Non-citizens can purchase property as part of their retirement plan under certain conditions.
• Hotel Development: Some hotel developments allow for the purchase of suites or apartments that can be rented out as part of the hotel’s operations.
• These schemes provide non-citizens with a variety of options to invest in property in Mauritius, with several offering the additional benefit of obtaining residency in the country.

My comments: As an expat, I have both rented and purchased properties. There is no lack of properties on the market to fit all budgets, and procedures are straightforward. As a non-citizen purchasing properties, an application needs to be made with the Economic Development Board, which could take a few months.